Former Governor of Abia State and Chief Whip of the 9th Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has declared himself the most important politician in the South-East region of Nigeria, insisting that his political pedigree, influence, and national reach place him ahead of other leaders, including the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
Kalu made the assertion while speaking with journalists at his country home in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, where he addressed current political developments in the South-East and Nigeria at large.
The former governor, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, stated that his long-standing involvement in politics, beginning from the days of the military era, has positioned him as a major stakeholder in both regional and national affairs.
“With due respect to my brother, Peter Obi, I am the most important politician in the South-East today. I have been in politics since the military days and have contributed immensely to shaping the political direction of our country,”
Kalu said.
“I have been a governor, a two-term senator, a businessman, and a national leader. My political influence cuts across all parts of Nigeria. You cannot talk about politics in the South-East without mentioning my name,” he added.
Kalu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), explained that his political network extends beyond ethnic and party lines, stressing that he has built enduring relationships across the country, which continue to influence decisions at the highest levels of government.
He maintained that political importance should be measured by reach, results, and relevance, not by social media trends or emotional popularity.
“Politics is not about noise or social media excitement. It is about influence, structure, and the ability to make things happen. I have empowered people, built bridges across regions, and contributed to national development. That’s what leadership is about,”
he emphasized.
The former governor also urged South-East politicians to work together to advance the collective interests of the region, instead of engaging in divisive comparisons and political rivalry.
“The South-East must unite and pursue a common political goal. It is not about who is more popular or who makes the loudest noise. It is about working together to ensure our people benefit from the Nigerian project,” Kalu said.
Observers say Kalu’s statement is a direct response to growing sentiments that Peter Obi, following his strong outing in the 2023 presidential election, has become the dominant political figure in the South-East.
However, Kalu maintained that his political contributions predate the emergence of many of today’s politicians, stressing that his legacy in governance and business remains unmatched in the region.
Political analysts note that Kalu’s latest comments could stir renewed debate over who truly holds political supremacy in the South-East, particularly as the region continues to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former governor reiterated his loyalty to the APC and expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a “leader with a clear vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria.”
“I believe in President Tinubu’s administration. He means well for the country, and I am confident that his reforms will soon yield positive results for Nigerians,”
Kalu concluded.